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Sweden's The Crown are considered mandatory metal in the death mosh, crushing the 90s with "then" classics like "Hell Is Here" and "Eternal Death". I'm not sure if band ever really rose to the top with some of the more notable melodic mainstays like At The Gates and Arch Enemy but they were still in the marathon. Unfortunately that race came to an end in 2004 with the band's surprising break-up. Vocalist Johan Lindstrand wasn't finished with his tirade there, he went on to form the equally crushing One Man Army And The Undead Quartet (really rolls off the tongue) while others went on to Engel and Angel Blake.

"Doomsday King" comes by way of Century Media and reunites everyone but Lindstrand. This collaboration is fronted by new vocalist Jonas Stalhammar formerly from a half dozen low-tier Swedish acts. The new shouter is right on target with his fury, nailing the masses with a punishing death growl that has enough enunciation to actually make it audible. From lighting quick double-bass tantrums to soaring melody, The Crown make full use of their talent, really embracing the reunion with zest and renewed confidence. This may be equally as good as "Deathrace King" (2000) and the vocals may actually be an improvement. The album was produced by guitarist Tervonen and is certainly efficient in cranking the watts for death-in-stereo. This is a punishing affair and it's great to see these warriors back on the ice. Recommended for fans of old Arch Enemy, Dew Scented and Nightrage.